Forbidden Notebook

A Novel

By: Alba de Céspedes

Narrated by: Cassandra Campbell

With an introduction by Jhumpa Lahiri, Quaderno Proibito is a classic domestic novel by the Italian-Cuban feminist writer Alba de Céspedes, whose work inspired contemporary writers like Elena Ferrante

In this modern translation by acclaimed Elena Ferrante translator Ann Goldstein, The Forbidden Notebook centers the inner life of a dissatisfied housewife living in postwar Rome.

Valeria Cossati never suspected how unhappy she had become with the shabby gentility of her bourgeois life—until she begins to jot down her thoughts and feelings in a little black book she keeps hidden in a closet. This new secret activity leads her to scrutinize herself and her life more closely, and she soon realizes that her individuality is being stifled by her devotion and sense of duty toward her husband, daughter, and son. As the conflicts between parents and children, husband and wife, and friends and lovers intensify, what goes on behind the Cossatis’ façade of middle-class respectability gradually comes to light, tearing the family’s fragile fabric apart.

An exquisitely crafted portrayal of domestic life, The Forbidden Notebook recognizes the universality of human aspirations.

©1952 Mondadori Libri S.p.A., Milano. English translation © 2023 by Ann Goldstein. Foreword copyright © 2022 by Jhumpa Lahiri. Originally published in Italian as Quaderno Proibito in 1952 by Mondadori. (P)2023 Blackstone Publishing

I didn’t expect to have anything in common with this protagonist, yet….

I found myself agreeing with many of her thoughts and feelings, strongly disagreeing with others, hating many of her decisions, and find myself deeply caring for her and her family, so, go ahead, pick into this forbidden notebook, I don’t think you will regret it.

So Many Women's Stories

This book is about a woman discovering herself through a journal she keeps. Within her family, she is all but invisible. It is also about live, different forms of illicit love, about mothers and daughters , and about adapting to a changing world. I was surprised to see that it was written in 1952. It is still so relevant today. I really liked this book.

The main character

I liked the story it was very interesting. The notebook idea kept the storyline but needed more depth of true feelings in stead of guilt.

Brilliant

As a man, I wish I had read this 30 years ago. Also beautifully written and recorded.

a must read

The Forbidden Notebook came to my attention when searching for diary novels recommendations. I enjoyed accompanying Valeria, the main character and owner of the diary, in her journey of self discovery with its ups and downs, contradictions, affirmations, and deep reflections. The pacing was perfect for me. The audible narrator was flawless. Highly recommended for these topics: the diary genre, mid-20th Century worldview, feminism, tradition, psychology, values, history, work ethics, relationships.